The device consumes as low as 18W of power (typical) with all channels operational, and features sophisticated, dynamically scalable power management. Unused portions of the core are automatically turned off without affecting the operation of the remaining channels.

The signal conditioning features of the GX3246 include per-input programmable equalization and per-output programmable de-emphasis. The input equalizer removes ISI jitter—typically caused by PCB trace losses—by opening the input data eye in applications where long PCB traces and connectors are used. There are four settings available for the input equalizer, allowing flexibility in adjusting the equalization level on a per-input basis.

Output de-emphasis capability provides a boost of the high-frequency content of the output signal, such that the data eye remains open after passing through a long interconnect of PCB traces and connectors. There are four de-emphasis settings that can be enabled on a per-output basis.

System test features, such as a programmable PRBS pattern generator and checker, can be applied to any input or output of the device as appropriate.

The pattern generators can be individually applied to any output of the device without impacting the normal operation of any other channel. Broadcast and multicast features are also available.

The chip features eight independent strobe lines, UPDATE_EN[7:0], which are used to determine the timing of the output updates. Any output can be linked to any strobe.